The Business Secretary, Peter Kyle, has likened Nigel Farage to the politics of Enoch Powell in today’s context. During a speech at the Co-operative Party conference, the senior Cabinet minister criticized the Reform UK leader.

Mr. Kyle emphasized the importance of achieving sustained economic growth to establish trust between the people and politics. He highlighted the necessity of building an economy and a political system that can effectively serve individuals, families, and communities.

Speaking at the conference in London, Mr. Kyle warned about the rise of far-right parties that promote disruption, division, and despair in the absence of economic progress. He specifically mentioned Reform UK, drawing parallels to past movements like the National Front and the British National Party. He described Nigel Farage as embodying the political ideology of Enoch Powell, known for his controversial “rivers of blood” speech in 1968.

The Business Secretary previously criticized Mr. Farage’s stance on the Online Safety Act, stating that opposing the legislation would align individuals with harmful intentions like Jimmy Savile’s hypothetical exploitation of children online.

The Co-operative Party, affiliated with the Labour Party, also heard from the Communities Secretary, Steve Reed, who emphasized the importance of unity in communities despite political differences. Mr. Reed urged for cooperation to ensure the success and well-being of local communities.